The Musi Riverfront Development Project in Hyderabad is poised to transform the city with an ambitious and comprehensive master plan. The Municipal Administration & Urban Development (MA & UD) Department has granted the necessary approvals and issued directives to move forward with the consultancy services for aggregate master planning. This article provides a detailed look at the project’s background, key decisions, and next steps for the transformative urban development.
Project Overview: A Vision for the Musi Riverfront
The Musi Riverfront Development Project is a major urban planning initiative aimed at revitalizing the Musi River and its surrounding areas. This project seeks to enhance the river’s ecosystem while providing recreational spaces and infrastructure for Hyderabad’s growing population. With a focus on sustainable development, the plan incorporates green spaces, public amenities, and improved transport facilities, making the Musi River a central part of the city’s future growth.
Key Government Orders and Sanctions
The foundation for this project has been carefully laid over the years through several key government orders and evaluations:
- Initial Sanctions: The groundwork for the project began with G.O.Ms No. 90, dated March 25, 2017, which set the stage for the riverfront development by outlining the project’s goals and scope.
- Recent Developments: More recently, G.O.Rt No. 325, issued on July 20, 2024, and G.O.Rt No. 343, dated August 3, 2024, advanced the project further. These orders focused on tender evaluations and shortlisted potential firms to carry out the consultancy services.
These critical steps allowed the project to gain momentum, culminating in the administrative sanctions detailed in G.O.Rt.No. 472, dated October 4, 2024, which officially kick-starts the next phase of development.
Financial Approval for the Master Plan
One of the most significant milestones in the Musi Riverfront Development Project is the financial approval granted by the state government. The Managing Director of MRDCL (Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited) submitted a proposal to secure the necessary funds for consultancy services. After careful consideration, the government approved the request for an administrative sanction amounting to Rs. 166.50 crores. This amount includes taxes and GST at 18%, ensuring that all financial obligations are covered.
The total sanctioned amount includes:
- Consultancy Services: Rs. 141,08,88,000 (excluding GST)
- GST (18%): Rs. 25,39,59,840
Award of Consultancy Services for Master Planning
With the financial approvals in place, the next step is to award the contract for the consultancy services to create the aggregate master plan. After a thorough tendering process and recommendations by the Tender Cum Evaluation Committee, the contract was awarded to a consortium consisting of:
- M/s Meinhardt Singapore Pte. Ltd.
- M/s Cushman & Wakefield India Private Limited
- M/s RIOS Design Studios Pte. Ltd.
The consortium’s negotiated offer price of Rs. 141,08,88,000, excluding GST, was accepted, and they were selected for the crucial task of developing a sustainable and innovative master plan for the riverfront project.
Letter of Acceptance and Formal Agreement
Following the selection of the consortium, the government has authorized the issuance of a Letter of Acceptance (LoA). This formal letter will be followed by the signing of a formal agreement with the consortium, officially entrusting them with the consultancy services required for the aggregate master planning of the Musi Riverfront Development Project. The agreement sets the stage for the technical and design teams to begin their work on revitalizing the Musi River and integrating it into the city’s urban framework.
Next Steps for the Musi Riverfront Development Project
With the consultancy services awarded and the necessary funds allocated, the focus now shifts to the execution phase. The Managing Director of MRDCL will oversee the implementation of the project, ensuring that all necessary actions are taken to move forward efficiently. This will include detailed planning, design development, and eventually, the construction of key infrastructure and public spaces along the Musi River.
The project is expected to play a significant role in the future of Hyderabad’s urban landscape, providing not only environmental benefits but also enhancing the quality of life for its residents by creating a greener, more connected city.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Hyderabad’s Urban Growth
The Musi Riverfront Development Project is a landmark urban renewal initiative that reflects the state government’s commitment to sustainable development. By revitalizing a historically important natural resource like the Musi River, Hyderabad is positioning itself as a forward-thinking city that values its environment while planning for future growth. The administrative sanction and award of consultancy services mark the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s urban evolution. With a well-designed master plan, the Musi Riverfront will soon become a symbol of Hyderabad’s progress and vision for a sustainable future.
